STAMPS
3 Cents United States Postage Stamp
Key Facts & Value
Key Fact
Description
Two examples of the 3-cent George Washington stamp, Scott #286. Issued in 1902 as part of the Regular Issue series, this stamp features a blue portrait of the first U.S. President. It was printed using the offset method and has a perforation of 12. The first day of issue was May 19, 1902, in New York City.
History
This stamp was part of the Bureau Issues series, which replaced the Trans-Mississippi Exposition stamps. These issues, featuring portraits of prominent figures, were intended to standardize U.S. postage. The 3-cent denomination was a common rate for domestic letter postage at the time. George Washington's image was a classic choice, reflecting his central role in American history.
Facts
The 3-cent Washington stamp is one of the most common stamps from this era, making it accessible for many collectors. Its simple yet iconic design has contributed to its enduring appeal. Variations in paper type and minor printing differences can exist, providing areas for specialized collecting.
Value Fact
Due to its abundance, the 3-cent Washington stamp in average condition has a low market value, often ranging from $0.25 to $1.00. However, pristine examples with full gum or special cancellations can command higher prices. Collectors seeking this stamp for historical context rather than investment will find it readily available.
In the galleries
Item Details
Official Details
Variation Details
jbnosey56 Details
Collectibles.com is operated by Collectbase Inc., a Delaware corporation. Collectible valuations, price estimates, and AI-assisted identifications are provided for informational and reference purposes only and do not constitute professional appraisals, financial advice, or guarantees of market value. Trademarks, card images, and intellectual property belonging to third-party rights holders are displayed solely for identification, valuation reference, and collection management purposes; Collectbase Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any such rights holders. User-generated content reflects the views of individual community members and not those of Collectbase Inc. This platform may earn affiliate commissions on qualifying purchases made through third-party links. The platform is provided "as is" without warranties of any kind, and Collectbase Inc. shall not be liable for any damages arising from use of this platform or reliance on its content. For full details governing your use of this platform and our privacy practices, see our Terms of Service and PrivacyPolicy.
© 2026 Collectbase Inc. All rights reserved.
This site and associated apps contain copyrighted material including card images, trademarks, and text belonging to The Pokémon Company International, Nintendo, GAME FREAK inc., Wizards of the Coast, Major League Baseball Properties, Inc., NBA Properties, Inc., NFL Properties LLC, NHL Enterprises, L.P., Topps, Panini America, Inc., Upper Deck, and all other respective rights holders. Such material is displayed solely for the purposes of identification, pricing reference, collection management, and to facilitate the buying, selling, and trading of physical collectibles by collectors. Collectbase Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any of the foregoing entities, and no challenge to their intellectual property rights or ownership is intended or implied.